Coming Soon: Isla Vida Bringing Afro-Caribbean Vibes to Fillmore

I’m always happy to hear when farmerbrown’s Jay Foster is up to something, and this time it’s a new project coming to the Fillmore this mid-September: ~ISLA VIDA AFRO-CARIBBEAN GRILL~. This new restaurant is going to be a casual spot, “inspired by the islands, people, and lifestyle of the African diaspora. It’s a warm, vibrant place where flavors are rooted in the culture and prepared with love and craft. Expect wood-fired meats, tostones, Cubanos, great music, and good vibes.” He’s partnering with farmerbrown friends Matthew Washington and Erin Traylor and is excited to be able to open a project in the historic Fillmore District (it’s going to be the former Black Bark BBQ space). The team traveled to New York, Miami, and Cuba for some culinary inspiration for the concept.

There will be 40 seats inside, and 20 outside, and will have a counter/quick service model—Foster says they expect a fair amount of take-out and delivery. They actually want to handle their own delivery in order to keep control over customer service and offer a full circle of hospitality.

They just launched an Indiegogo campaign (please be sure to watch their video) for a final funding push to help add outdoor seating, purchase eco-friendly electric cargo bikes for delivery, and better signage and bar equipment. Please show some support to this black-owned business trying to keep the soul of the Fillmore alive—like they said in an email, even $5 helps.

Hours will be Wed-Sun 11am-8pm, and opening at 10am on the weekends for brunch. 1325 Fillmore St. at Ellis.